The three people perished on the Aonach Eagach ridge. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

Two of the three people who died in a mountaineering incident in Glen Coe at the weekend have been named.

Graham Cox, 60, perished on Aonach Eagach, along with a woman and a professional mountain guide.

The guide has been named locally as Dave Fowler, 39, an experienced Fort William-based mountaineer and director of West Coast Mountain Guides. The third casualty, a 64-year-old woman, has not yet been named.

The trio failed to return from a traverse of the exposed ridge on Saturday. An operation to recover their bodies was completed the following day.

The family of Mr Cox, from Southport on Merseyside, said he was a much loved husband, father, son and brother.

“He is remembered by all as the kindest, loveliest man. The family is devastated by his loss and request privacy at this time.”

Mr Fowler had more than 25 years’ experience climbing, 15 of which were working in the outdoor pursuits industry. He had climbed in countries across the globe.

His company posted a notice on its website saying: “Due to unforeseen circumstances, West Coast Mountain Guides is unable to take any new bookings at this current time.”

A joint statement by the Association of Mountaineering Instructors, Mountain Training, Mountaineering Scotland and the British Mountaineering Council said: “We were deeply saddened to learn about the tragic accident that took place in Glen Coe, which resulted in the untimely loss of three lives.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends of the individuals who were tragically taken from us in this devastating incident. At this time, we are aware that three people, comprising one woman and two men, were tragically lost on the Aonach Eagach.

“Out of utmost respect for the families’ wishes and due to the ongoing nature of the police investigation we are unable to provide any further comments or details.

“Please know that our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this heartbreaking event. We would also like to recognise and thank the efforts of the volunteers of Glencoe Mountain Rescue Team, the RAF MR team and the Coastguard for what would have been an incredibly difficult callout.”

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said: “The procurator fiscal has received reports in connection with the deaths of a 64-year-old woman and two men aged 39 and 60 in Glencoe on 6 August.

“The investigation into the deaths is ongoing and the families will continue to be kept updated in relation to any significant developments.”